Cheetahs vs Section Paloise Prediction & Betting Tips - Challenge Cup

Prediction published on 13/01/2024, 08:00  by Devesh Jaganath in Challenge Cup Predictions

The Toyota Cheetahs will face off against Section Paloise (PAU) in the third round of the EPCR Challenge Cup on Sunday. The hosts currently lead Pool 1, while the visitors are in fifth place after the first two matches. Following victories against Zebre and the Hollywoodbets Sharks in the ongoing competition, the Cheetahs are eagerly anticipating their upcoming move to Amsterdam, aiming to build something exceptional at their new location. In order for the Cheetahs to participate as invitees in the 2023-24 EPCR Challenge Cup, one of the conditions set by the EPCR was that the team establish its base in Europe. Hawies Fourie's team achieved a notable feat by securing victories against this opponent in both encounters during their first Challenge Cup campaign last season. They won 21-16 in France and 9-6 in their designated 'home' match held in Italy. Can they extend their winning record against Pau in their new home?

Meanwhile, Pau are an improved side this season and currently holds the fourth position in the Top 14 this term, with only four points separating them from the top spot. After rebounding from a substantial 40-point defeat in Durban, Pau secured a 24-21 victory over the Dragons, placing them in fifth position in Pool 1. However, they began 2024 on a losing note, as they were beaten by La Rochelle 29-20 at home last week, which followed a 34-13 loss away to Oyonnax in their final match of last year. Pau’s major drawback of late has been their away record, as they have lost each of their last four games on the road and last picked up an away win back in October over Perpignan. They will now have to travel to Amsterdam to face a Cheetahs side that are well-rested and back to full strength.